Eastern Kingbird vs Scissor-tailed Flycatcher

The Eastern Kingbird and Scissor-tailed Flycatcher can be distinguished primarily by their tail features. The Eastern Kingbird has a short, squared tail with a white terminal band, while the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher is notable for its dramatically elongated tail feathers, especially in males.

Look for the tail: Eastern Kingbird has a short, squared tail with a white band, while the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher has a long, deeply forked tail. Check plumage: Eastern Kingbird is dark gray with a white belly, whereas Scissor-tailed Flycatcher has a pale gray body with pinkish flanks.

The Eastern Kingbird is mostly dark gray to black on top with a white underbelly and a distinctive white band at the end of its tail. In contrast, the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher displays a pale gray body with salmon-pink flanks and underwing coverts, and its tail is much longer and more ornate.